title: Management of open fractures of the lower limb.
abstract: This article gives a practical guide for the management of open lower limb fractures. It outlines the referral criteria and pathway for definitive care in a specialist centre, the initial management steps that should be taken in the emergency department, and the principles of fixation, soft tissue coverage and antibiotic therapy.
authors.affiliation: Foundation Doctor in the Oxford University Clinical Academic Graduate School.
authors.forename: Adam M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Ali
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Noyes
authors.forename: Lucy K
authors.initials: LK
authors.lastname: Cogswell
mesh_terms: D000671:Amputation, Surgical; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003646:Debridement; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D017695:Soft Tissue Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D014946:Wound Infection / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000517:prevention & control*
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents